Julien took Bernard’s hand, and shook it. “Enchanté, monsieur Jeanneret. Julien Lafleur.” He introduced himself, with a wide grin. “Model, performer, future star. I have to say, monsieur, you’re quite lucky to be meeting me so early in my career. Soon, I’ll be far too famous for casual museum visits.” He winked. “One day, I will be the next André Bellamy. You’ll be seeing my name up on the marquee!”

Julien blinked at the question, momentarily caught off guard. “Well,” he started, thinking back, “I mean, I’ve always had a certain… presence, but I wouldn’t say I’ve ever made flowers glow before. He smirked. “Turn heads? Absolutely. But this?” He gestured dramatically at the Crystabloom. “New territory.”

He glanced at Bijou, who hovered close to the glass, her tiny body swaying ever so slightly. The little Flabébé chirped softly, tilting her head as if wondering the same thing.

Still, as much as he played it off, Julien couldn’t deny that something about this moment felt significant. “Are you suggesting that flower really might be reacting to me?” He placed a hand on his hip, tilting his head in interest. “Because that would be fabulous if so!”